I Identify with your characters. Imagine your story: see it happening as you tell it. Improvise if you make a mistake; your audience usually won't know.

J Join your audience in sharing the joy of the story. Just be yourself; you'll find your natural style. Journey into the world of storytelling.

K Keep records of stories you have learned and want to learn. Kindle your listeners' imaginations and emotions. Know your story inside and out.

L Learn only stories you love. Let the story speak for itself - don't try to explain it. Listen to as many stories as possible.

M Memorize only the beginning and end of your stories, and essential key phrases. Make eye contact with your audience, so each listener feels the story is a gift from you. Match your material to your audience.

N Note changes you want to make after a performance. Notice audience reactions. Nurture yourself and your audience with stories from the heart.

O Obtain permission to tell stories written by other tellers. Observe what makes other tellers successful. Outline the story structure.

P Participate with your audience by encouraging them to join in on repeated patterns. Pause to intensify meaning and heighten suspense. Practice your stories orally until they are a part of you.